Family Systems Changes Following Traumatic Brain Injury: Adult Sibling Perspectives

The purpose of the present study was to gain an understanding of family outcome, adjustment, and needs following traumatic brain injury (TBI) from the perspectives of adult siblings. An American sample of 277 adult siblings of persons with TBI responded to the question, “What impact has your sibling's TBI had on your family (e.g., parents, other siblings, etc.)”? Responses were analyzed through constant comparative textual analysis. Responses were grouped into four themes including a) the consequences of providing care, b) family system impacts, c) evolved attitudes and beliefs, and d) how families provide care. From the perspective of adult siblings, TBI presents outcomes which both strengthen and compromise family systems. The uniqueness of the sibling bond reveals information about family systems not accessible through other relationships.